FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 18, 2020

MEDIA CONTACT:
Stephanie Cohen
scohen@ncjw.org

The National Council of Jewish Women is deeply disappointed about the appointment of Justin Walker to a lifetime seat on the judiciary

WASHINGTON – The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is deeply disappointed that instead of voting on pressing matters — like tackling the current COVID-19 health pandemic — the Senate voted for a lifetime appointment of Justin Walker to the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Jody Rabhan, NCJW Chief Policy Officer responded with the following:

“Despite a resurgence of COVID-19 and the real need to focus on a federal response to dismantling systems of oppression, the Senate chose to instead prioritize the confirmation of Justin Walker today (51-42) to the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Walker has never served as the sole or lead attorney trying a case to verdict or judgment and has only taken one deposition during his entire career. In addition to his extreme lack of experience, Walker brings a partisan agenda to the bench, which calls into question his ability to be fair. In his hearing, he repeated his contention that the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was indefensible. He praised Justice Kavanaugh for setting out a “road map” for unraveling the ACA and praised Kavanaugh’s dissent arguing that the contraceptive coverage benefit of the Affordable Care Act was unconstitutional.

“Scant experience coupled with a desire to dismantle our nation’s health care law as millions are sick and dying from COVID-19 should be disqualifying on its face. Federal courts are the last line of defense for our constitutional rights, and the judges who sit on them must be fair, independent, and qualified. Walker’s confirmation of what is widely considered the second-highest court is a blight on our third branch of government, and a loss for equality and justice. National Council of Jewish Women will continue to ensure our nation’s judiciary is reserved for those with the highest levels of integrity, political independence, and relevant experience.”

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The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. More information on Facebook and on Twitter at @NCJW.